Nintendo Unveils First Look at Live-Action Zelda Film with Bo Bragason

Nintendo has released the first official images from the upcoming live-action adaptation of The Legend of Zelda, showcasing Bo Bragason as Princess Zelda and Benjamin Evan Ainsworth as Link. These photos, shared via the Nintendo Today app, mark a significant step forward in the production of what is poised to be one of the company’s most ambitious film projects. The film is set to debut on May 7, 2027, and production commenced earlier this month in New Zealand.

First Glimpse of Hyrule

The newly released images not only highlight Bragason’s portrayal of Zelda but also provide a first look at Ainsworth as Link, establishing the film’s tone. The project aims to blend thrilling fantasy with emotional storytelling, a combination that has long captivated fans of the franchise. Director Wes Ball, known for the Maze Runner trilogy, has expressed his vision for the film, describing it as “serious and cool, but fun and whimsical.” This suggests a narrative that balances epic adventure with lighter, fantastical elements.

Ball has drawn inspiration from acclaimed filmmaker Hayao Miyazaki, co-founder of Studio Ghibli. His influence indicates that the Zelda adaptation may incorporate a dreamlike quality reminiscent of Miyazaki’s works, particularly Spirited Away. This stylistic choice aims to capture the magical essence of Hyrule, appealing to both longtime fans and new audiences alike.

Speculation on a Trilogy

Industry insights suggest that the film could be the first installment in a planned trilogy. According to industry insider Daniel Richtman, major roles have been signed for three productions over a span of six years. Although this information remains unconfirmed, it emphasizes Nintendo’s broader ambitions in cinema, potentially positioning The Legend of Zelda as a cornerstone of their expanding film portfolio.

Nintendo’s strategic approach to cinema follows the success of The Super Mario Bros Movie in 2023, with another project, The Super Mario Galaxy Movie, slated for release in 2026. During a recent presentation, Shuntaro Furukawa, president of Nintendo, outlined a framework for consistent film releases. His remarks hinted at additional projects beyond those currently announced, indicating a desire to establish a more frequent release schedule.

Furukawa emphasized that Nintendo is “continuing to prepare for the ongoing release of movies in the future,” suggesting a shift towards shorter gaps between projects compared to the three-year interval observed between Mario films. This commitment to a sustained presence in cinema reflects Nintendo’s ambition to develop cinematic universes capable of rivaling established franchises.

With Bragason stepping into the role of Zelda and Ainsworth portraying Link, Nintendo is banking on the enduring allure of its iconic fantasy franchise. The initial photographs not only serve as a sneak peek but also signal the scale of the company’s aspirations: to transform beloved video game worlds into compelling cinematic experiences.

As production progresses, these images promise a captivating adaptation that aims to bring Hyrule to life on the big screen, marking a bold venture for Nintendo in one of its most significant projects to date.